Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Distribution Channel (Online Sales, Direct Sales, Retail Outlets, Distributors, Wholesale), By Application (Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Food Additives, Agriculture, Manufacturing), By End Use Industry (Healthcare, Food and Beverage, Personal Care, Agriculture, Environmental Management), By Product Type (Activated Carbon, Carbon Black, Biochar, Vegetable Carbon Powder, Granular Activated Carbon), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market is projected to grow from USD 5.8 Billion in 2025 to USD 12.3 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% from 2026 through 2035. This market encompasses the sale of carbon products derived from plant-based biomass, specifically those produced through the pyrolysis of vegetable matter. These products are valued for their purity, sustainability, and diverse functional properties, finding applications across a multitude of industries. The primary drivers for market expansion include the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients in food and beverage industries, growing consumer awareness regarding synthetic additives, and stringent environmental regulations promoting bio-based materials. Furthermore, the rising adoption of vegetable carbon as a natural colorant and functional ingredient in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals is significantly contributing to market growth. However, market growth faces restraints such as the relatively higher production costs compared to synthetic alternatives and the technical challenges associated with scaling up production while maintaining consistent quality.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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A significant trend observed in the market is the continuous innovation in product development, with manufacturers focusing on creating specialized grades of vegetable carbon for specific applications, enhancing their performance characteristics, and ensuring regulatory compliance across various regions. Another notable trend is the increasing investment in research and development to explore new applications of vegetable carbon in areas such as water purification, energy storage, and advanced materials. The market also presents substantial opportunities driven by the expanding clean label movement in the food industry, a surge in demand for natural and organic personal care products, and the development of sustainable packaging solutions utilizing bio-based carbons. The dominant region in this market is Asia Pacific, attributed to its large manufacturing base, expanding food and beverage sector, and increasing consumer expenditure on processed foods and personal care products. This region also benefits from a robust agricultural sector providing abundant raw materials for vegetable carbon production.
Asia Pacific is also recognized as the fastest growing region, propelled by rapid industrialization, burgeoning populations, and evolving dietary preferences towards healthier and natural ingredients. Government initiatives supporting sustainable manufacturing practices and the emergence of local players investing in advanced production technologies further accelerate growth in this region. Key players in the global market include Nitrochemie AG, Black Bear Carbon, Continental Carbon, Continental Carbonic Products, Mitsubishi Chemical, Orion Engineered Carbons, Tokai Carbon, KraussMaffei, Continental Chemical, and American Carbon Company. These companies are employing various strategic initiatives such as expanding their product portfolios through continuous innovation, forging strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance their market reach, and investing in advanced production facilities to optimize operational efficiency and meet the growing global demand. Emphasis on sustainable sourcing and production processes is also a key strategic focus for these market leaders to strengthen their competitive edge and align with evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 5.8 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 12.3 BillionLeading Segment:
Food Additives (42.5% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (38.7% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.7%
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Sustainable Sourcing Elevates Activated Carbon Demand
Sustainable sourcing is a powerful driver for activated carbon demand within the global vegetable carbon market. Growing consumer and industrial awareness of environmental impact compels manufacturers to seek responsibly produced raw materials. Vegetable carbon derived from renewable biomass aligns perfectly with this sustainability imperative, offering an eco friendly alternative to fossil fuel based carbons.
As industries prioritize green supply chains, the preference for sustainably sourced activated carbon increases dramatically. This shift fuels the production of vegetable carbon products, which are then activated for various applications like water purification, air filtration, and food processing. The trend reflects a broader move towards circular economy principles, where renewable resources and ethical production enhance product value and market share for vegetable carbon producers.
Clean Label Imperative Fuels Plant Based Carbon Growth
Consumers increasingly demand transparency and understandability in food ingredients, driving the "clean label" trend. This desire for simpler, more natural formulations directly impacts the plant based carbon products market. Manufacturers of plant based foods and beverages are responding by prioritizing ingredients that are recognizable, minimally processed, and free from artificial additives. This imperative extends to the carbon sources themselves, favoring plant derived options perceived as inherently cleaner and more sustainable. The transparency and naturalness associated with plant based ingredients align perfectly with clean label principles. This synergy fuels the expansion of plant based carbon products as companies reformulate to meet consumer expectations for wholesome, understandable food, leading to significant growth in the global vegetable carbon products sales market.
Functional Carbon Additives Reshape Food and Beverage
Functional carbon additives are transforming food and beverage. Beyond traditional coloring, these advanced carbons now offer significant health and performance benefits. Innovations in their production yield materials that enhance shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth and oxidation, naturally preserving products. They are also being incorporated for their adsorptive properties, effectively removing undesirable compounds like mycotoxins or off flavors, improving product purity and taste. Manufacturers are leveraging these additives to create healthier food options, for instance, by binding to fats or sugars for reduced absorption. This trend reflects a broader consumer demand for clean label ingredients and functional foods, driving the integration of these versatile carbon solutions into a wider range of food and beverage applications, fundamentally reshaping product development and consumer health perspectives.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market
Increasing Consumer Demand for Natural and Clean Label Ingredients
Consumers globally are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, driving a significant shift towards natural and clean label ingredients in their food choices. This trend is fueled by a desire for transparency regarding product composition and a growing distrust of artificial additives, colors, and preservatives. As awareness of the potential benefits of plant based and minimally processed foods rises, consumers actively seek products with recognizable and understandable ingredient lists. Vegetable carbon, derived from natural sources, perfectly aligns with this demand. Its functional properties as a natural coloring agent and an ingredient in detox products position it as a desirable component for manufacturers aiming to meet consumer expectations for wholesome, natural, and clean label food and beverage options. This preference for naturalness translates directly into higher demand for vegetable carbon.
Expanding Applications in Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical, and Cosmetics Industries
The expanding applications in food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries are significantly fueling the global vegetable carbon market. In food and beverages, vegetable carbon is increasingly adopted as a natural coloring agent for confectionery, desserts, and beverages, meeting consumer demand for clean label ingredients. Its ability to impart a deep black hue without artificial additives makes it a preferred choice. Within pharmaceuticals, it serves as an excipient, an adsorbent for treating poisoning, and a component in drug formulations due to its inert nature and large surface area. The cosmetics industry utilizes vegetable carbon for its purifying and detoxifying properties in face masks, cleansers, and hair products, aligning with trends towards natural and functional beauty ingredients. This broad utility across diverse sectors underscores its pivotal role in market growth.
Growing Focus on Sustainable and Plant-Based Solutions
Consumers increasingly prioritize health and environmental impact, driving demand for sustainable and plant based food options. Vegetable carbon, derived from plant materials, aligns perfectly with these preferences. Its natural origin and versatility appeal to manufacturers seeking clean label ingredients. As a coloring agent, vegetable carbon offers a natural alternative to artificial dyes, resonating with consumer desire for wholesome products. This shift towards plant centric diets and sustainable living fuels the adoption of vegetable carbon in various food and beverage applications. The growing vegan and vegetarian populations further amplify this demand, positioning vegetable carbon as a key ingredient in an evolving food landscape.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Restraints
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities in Global Vegetable Carbon Market
Supply chain vulnerabilities are a significant restraint in the global vegetable carbon market. The intricate process of sourcing raw materials like wood, bamboo, or coconut shells, followed by carbonization, activation, and distribution, is susceptible to various disruptions. Geopolitical instability, natural disasters, and pandemics can severely impact the availability and flow of these essential raw materials. Furthermore, reliance on a limited number of suppliers or specific geographic regions amplifies the risk of bottlenecks. Transportation disruptions, port closures, and fluctuating energy costs also add layers of complexity and cost to the supply chain. These vulnerabilities translate into increased production costs, potential delays in delivery, and ultimately, a reduced ability for manufacturers to meet growing consumer demand for vegetable carbon products. The fragility of these global networks directly impedes market expansion and stability.
Regulatory Hurdles and Certification Costs for Vegetable Carbon Producers
Vegetable carbon producers face significant regulatory hurdles and certification costs impacting market entry and expansion. Compliance with diverse international food safety regulations like those from the FDA or EFSA requires extensive testing and documentation. Obtaining certifications such as ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000, crucial for market credibility and consumer trust, involves substantial financial investment in audits and facility upgrades. These rigorous processes, while ensuring product safety, create a barrier for smaller producers due to the associated administrative burden and financial strain. Furthermore, navigating different national standards adds complexity and expense, hindering a streamlined global supply chain and limiting the accessible market for some producers.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Opportunities
Unlocking Growth in Natural Food & Beverage Coloration Amidst Clean Label Shift
The global clean label movement fuels a substantial opportunity for vegetable carbon products. As consumers increasingly reject artificial ingredients, demand for natural food and beverage colors is surging worldwide. Vegetable carbon, derived from plant sources, offers an ideal solution for achieving stable, deep black coloration that aligns perfectly with clean label requirements. This shift presents a unique chance for manufacturers to unlock significant growth by providing a natural, safe, and consumer-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes. The growing awareness of ingredient sourcing and health benefits across diverse markets, particularly in dynamic regions like Asia Pacific, further amplifies this potential. Companies focusing on innovation, sustainable sourcing, and product application expertise will be well positioned to capitalize on this evolving consumer preference. This enables expansion into various food and beverage segments seeking natural visual appeal without compromise. The drive for transparency and healthier options directly translates into a premium for naturally derived ingredients, making vegetable carbon a strategic choice for global product reformulation and new product development.
Seizing Demand for Plant-Based Activated Carbon in Health & Personal Care
The global market presents a prime opportunity to seize growing demand for plant based activated carbon within health and personal care. Consumers worldwide are increasingly prioritizing natural, sustainable ingredients, driving a significant shift in product preferences. Plant derived activated carbon, renowned for its superior purification, detoxification, and absorption capabilities, perfectly meets this evolving consumer ethos. Its applications are broad and impactful, ranging from detoxifying facial masks and natural toothpastes to internal wellness supplements and advanced water purification systems. This versatility, combined with a clean label appeal, positions it as a highly desirable ingredient. Manufacturers can strategically capitalize on this trend by developing innovative, plant based activated carbon formulations tailored for these specific applications. The rapid growth in regions like Asia Pacific, fueled by rising health consciousness and a preference for natural solutions, amplifies this opportunity. Focused investment in sustainable sourcing and specialized product development will enable businesses to capture a substantial share of this expanding and lucrative market segment, catering to a global demand for nature inspired wellness.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Pharmaceuticals
- •Cosmetics
- •Food Additives
- •Agriculture
- •Manufacturing
By Product Type
- •Activated Carbon
- •Carbon Black
- •Biochar
- •Vegetable Carbon Powder
- •Granular Activated Carbon
By End Use Industry
- •Healthcare
- •Food and Beverage
- •Personal Care
- •Agriculture
- •Environmental Management
By Distribution Channel
- •Online Sales
- •Direct Sales
- •Retail Outlets
- •Distributors
- •Wholesale
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Food Additives
- Cosmetics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
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Why is Food Additives dominating the Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market?
Food Additives holds the largest share within the application segment, primarily due to the rising consumer preference for natural coloring agents and the expanding clean label movement. Vegetable carbon serves as an effective and safe natural black pigment in numerous food and beverage products, fulfilling an essential role for manufacturers aiming to replace artificial dyes. Its broad acceptance in food regulations globally further solidifies its leading position by offering an E number compliant solution for a wide array of edible applications.
Which product types are most impactful in shaping the Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market?
Activated Carbon and Granular Activated Carbon are highly influential product types, driven by their extensive applications in purification and filtration across various industries. Their exceptional adsorptive properties make them indispensable for air and water treatment, pharmaceutical purification, and food processing. Vegetable Carbon Powder also contributes significantly, particularly as a natural colorant in food and cosmetics, and as a dietary supplement ingredient, showcasing the market's reliance on both highly specialized and broadly applicable forms of vegetable carbon.
How do various End Use Industries and Distribution Channels contribute to the market's dynamics?
The Healthcare and Food and Beverage industries are significant drivers for vegetable carbon products, reflecting its use in pharmaceutical formulations, dietary supplements, and as a food additive. Environmental Management also plays a crucial role due to the demand for purification solutions. In terms of distribution, a blend of Direct Sales, catering to large industrial buyers, and Retail Outlets, serving consumer goods segments like Personal Care, ensures broad market reach. Online Sales are increasingly important, providing accessibility and convenience for a growing base of B2B and B2C customers, facilitating a diverse market approach.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global vegetable carbon market navigates a complex regulatory landscape primarily shaped by its diverse applications. As a food additive (E153 in Europe), it faces stringent pre market approval processes by bodies like EFSA, mandating purity criteria, maximum usage levels, and clear labeling requirements. Conversely, the US FDA does not permit vegetable carbon as a food colorant, creating a significant market divergence between regions. For cosmetic applications, regulations focus on ingredient safety assessments and appropriate labeling under frameworks like the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Pharmaceutical uses, particularly as activated charcoal, are subject to rigorous drug and medical device standards, including good manufacturing practices and efficacy testing. Furthermore, its use in industrial filtration or as a biochar product for agriculture is governed by environmental and waste management regulations, and often product specific quality standards. Compliance with international trade agreements and varying national import export rules further influences market access and operational strategies. These disparate regulatory approaches necessitate localized market strategies and continuous monitoring of evolving standards.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The global vegetable carbon products market is being reshaped by ongoing innovations and emerging technologies. Advanced pyrolysis techniques are central, enabling precise control over carbonization for tailored product characteristics, including enhanced purity and specific particle sizes crucial for food grade applications like natural colorant E153. Nanotechnology is pushing boundaries, facilitating the development of ultra fine powders with superior surface areas, unlocking new potential in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and sophisticated filtration systems.
Emerging technologies also focus on sustainability. The integration of biochar production from agricultural waste is gaining momentum, offering a circular economy approach to raw material sourcing. Furthermore, AI driven process optimization is improving manufacturing efficiency and ensuring consistent product quality. Specialized surface modification techniques are enhancing vegetable carbon's functional properties, broadening its utility beyond traditional uses into high performance materials and environmental remediation solutions, signaling a dynamic future for the sector.
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Regional Analysis
Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market
Trends, by Region
Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 38.7% share
Asia Pacific unequivocally asserts its dominance in the global vegetable carbon products sales market, commanding a significant 38.7% share. This leadership is primarily fueled by robust industrial demand across diverse applications, particularly in the region’s burgeoning automotive and manufacturing sectors. Rapid urbanization and increasing infrastructure development further propel demand for rubber and plastic products, key end uses for vegetable carbon. Moreover, a large and growing population base, coupled with evolving consumer preferences towards natural and sustainable ingredients, contributes to the strong performance of the food and beverage industry within Asia Pacific. The presence of numerous manufacturing hubs and competitive production costs also reinforce the region’s market stronghold.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 9.2% CAGR
Asia Pacific emerges as the fastest growing region in the global vegetable carbon products sales market, projected at a robust CAGR of 9.2% from 2026 to 2035. This accelerated expansion is fueled by several key factors. Rapid industrialization and urbanization across countries like China and India are driving increased demand for food and beverage ingredients. Growing consumer awareness regarding natural and plant based products further boosts the market. Furthermore the expanding pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries within the region are significantly contributing to the surge in sales. Increased foreign direct investment and technological advancements in extraction and processing methods are also propelling Asia Pacific to the forefront of this market.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical shifts influence vegetable carbon demand through trade policies and resource accessibility. Increased environmental regulations in key regions, driven by sustainability initiatives, bolster the market for natural alternatives like vegetable carbon. Supply chain disruptions, often exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, can impact raw material availability and logistics, affecting production costs and delivery times. Political stability in agricultural powerhouses directly impacts the consistent supply of biomass, a critical input for vegetable carbon production.
Macroeconomic trends, particularly global industrial output and consumer spending patterns, significantly sway market dynamics. Economic downturns may temper demand from industries like rubber and plastics, which utilize vegetable carbon. Conversely, robust economic growth, particularly in emerging economies, can spur increased adoption. Raw material price volatility, influenced by agricultural commodity markets and energy costs, affects manufacturers' profitability. Exchange rate fluctuations also play a crucial role, impacting export competitiveness and import costs for both producers and consumers of vegetable carbon products.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Black Bear Carbon announced a strategic partnership with KraussMaffei to develop and commercialize new high-performance rubber and plastic compounds incorporating sustainable vegetable carbon black. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of bio-based additives in various industrial applications, leveraging KraussMaffei's expertise in machinery and Black Bear Carbon's innovative product.
- January 2025
Orion Engineered Carbons launched a new line of advanced vegetable carbon products specifically designed for demanding automotive tire applications. This product launch focuses on delivering superior grip and reduced rolling resistance, addressing the increasing demand for high-performance and environmentally friendly tire solutions in the global market.
- February 2025
Mitsubishi Chemical completed the acquisition of American Carbon Company, significantly expanding its production capacity and technological capabilities in the vegetable carbon sector. This strategic acquisition enhances Mitsubishi Chemical's global footprint and strengthens its position as a leading supplier of sustainable carbon materials for diverse industries.
- April 2025
Tokai Carbon initiated a new research and development program focused on developing ultra-conductive vegetable carbon materials for next-generation battery technologies. This strategic initiative aims to create innovative solutions that improve energy storage efficiency and extend battery life, responding to the growing demand for advanced materials in the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors.
Key Players Analysis
Leading players like Orion Engineered Carbons, Tokai Carbon, and Black Bear Carbon dominate the global vegetable carbon market. They are key manufacturers utilizing advanced pyrolysis and activation technologies to produce high purity carbon for diverse industrial applications. Strategic initiatives include expanding production capacity, enhancing product portfolios with specialty carbons, and forming partnerships. Market growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for sustainable and bio based industrial materials, especially in sectors like food, cosmetics, and automotive.
List of Key Companies:
- Nitrochemie AG
- Black Bear Carbon
- Continental Carbon
- Continental Carbonic Products
- Mitsubishi Chemical
- Orion Engineered Carbons
- Tokai Carbon
- KraussMaffei
- Continental Chemical
- American Carbon Company
- Morgan Advanced Materials
- Kureha Corporation
- Koppers Inc.
- Cabot Corporation
- Imerys
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 5.8 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 12.3 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.7% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use Industry, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Vegetable Carbon Products Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035